Buying a house or condominium is a very real option for many people, including those who are currently renting. Individuals with disabilities who are interested in owning their own home should investigate this option seriously. There are many state and federal programs available that support individuals in becoming home owners, from help in making a down payment to help in finding an affordable mortgage.

The location of your home is a very important decision that can dramatically affect the price, the type of services that are offered in the area, and how functional it is for you. Some things to consider are:
 

• Layout of the lot - Is it on a hill or at the base of a cliff?
• Drainage - How will water flow on and around the property?
• Weather hazards - Are hurricanes or floods a common occurrence?
• Services nearby - Are there freeway accesses, banks, stores, etc. nearby?
• Medical facilities - Are there hospitals and physician offices nearby?
• Public transportation - Are there bus lines or subways?
• Emergency services - How close are fire, police, and ambulance services?
• Safety - Is there security available?
• Recreation - Are there parks or recreation facilities nearby?
• Distance - How far is it from where you are or will be working?
• Schools - How far is it from schools or educational institutions?

For useful information on locating and buying a home in Hawai`i, see any of the following links:

Buying a Home Info.com
At this resource site you can research available Hawai`i mortgages and home loan programs.

Honolulu Board of Realtors, Hawai`i Central
This resource site is used by real estate professionals and consumers alike to identify properties for sale in Hawai`i.

Honolulu Advertiser, Online Classified Advertisements
Find homes for sale and available rentals at this website.

These national websites also provide potentially useful information about home ownership:

Ginnie Mae, Buy vs. Rent
If you currently renting and are considering buying a home, visit this Ginnie Mae site to compare the financial benefits of renting and buying.

Ginnie Mae, What Can I Afford?
New buyers may want to investigate what they can afford. This Ginnie Mae website provides several useful worksheets on buying versus renting, finding an appropriate lender, and determining what is affordable for you.

Habitat for Humanity
Certain programs, like that of Habitat for Humanity, allow you to substitute money for labor, by building your own home or helping others to build theirs. Find a listing of local contacts for this nonprofit at this section of their comprehensive website.

Fannie Mae, for Homeowner Educators
This page within the Fannie Mae website provides comprehensive resources for Homeowner Educators for persons with disabilities.

Fannie Mae, Affordable Housing Solutions
This section of the Fannie Mae website, provides information regarding loans for persons with disabilities.

Veteran's Administration (VA), Specially Adapted Housing Program
The Veteran's Administration has a specially adopted housing program for veterans that have specific service-connected disabilities. For more information regarding these programs, visit the VA website.